Safety at Med-o-lark

A Note from our Director:

Creating a place where children and staff feel safe, supported, and truly cared for is not something we ever take lightly. It is an ongoing commitment that we revisit and strengthen every year. We proudly follow the standards of the American Camp Association, which guide our training, supervision, and daily practices and help us hold ourselves to the highest level of care. We believe the best camp experiences happen when families feel confident and at ease, knowing their children are in a thoughtful and loving environment. That is why we work to be open and transparent about how we approach safety and camper well being.
Thank you for trusting us with your children each summer. Please never hesitate to reach out with questions. We hope the information here offers clarity, reassurance, and a sense of peace of mind as you consider Med-o-lark your child’s summer home.

Warmly,
Sadie
Camp Director and Co-Owner of Camp Med-o-lark

Safety & Supervision

  • We keep campers safe through thoughtful supervision, clear routines, and a strong culture of care. From the moment campers wake up until lights-out, trained staff are actively present, following clear schedules and supervision practices so campers are always supported. We follow ACA standards, use consistent camper-to-staff ratios, and prioritize open communication, creating an environment where campers feel secure, cared for, and free to be themselves every day.

  • Our campers are supervised by trained, attentive staff who follow clear, consistent guidelines every day. We use the Rule of Three, which means staff are never alone with a camper out of sight of others. There is always a group of three or more, such as one staff member with two campers, two staff members with one camper, or a group in a visible, public space. 

  • Campers are supervised throughout the entire day, from morning wake-up through lights-out at night. Each camper follows a structured daily schedule that includes activities, meals, rest periods, and evening programs, all led and monitored by trained staff. Campers transition to their activities independently, which is a wonderful growth opportunity for our campers, especially our youngest ones. During activity transitions, staff are present in common areas to ensure campers are supported in finding their next activity if needed. Instructors take attendance in the first two minutes of class and report any missing campers to the office immediately. Leadership do regular cabin sweeps to ensure campers are not in cabins alone. 

    In the evenings, campers return to their cabins where counselors provide continued supervision and support, ensuring a safe and settled end to each day. Clear routines, consistent staffing, and active supervision help create a secure and predictable environment where campers can focus on having fun, building friendships, and enjoying camp life.

  • Cabin life and free time are always supervised. Counselors are nearby, engaged, and aware of where campers are, with free time happening in designated, visible areas so campers can relax and explore safely.

Health & Medical Care

  • Camper health and well-being are a top priority at camp. Our Health Center is staffed by qualified medical professionals who provide care for illness, injury, and ongoing health needs. Medications are securely stored and administered according to physician and pharmacist instructions, and families are notified as appropriate if medical care is needed.

    We work closely with families to support each camper’s health needs and utilize telehealth services or nearby medical facilities when a physician’s evaluation is required. Through clear procedures, trained staff, and open communication, we ensure campers receive timely, attentive medical care throughout their stay.

  • All medications—both prescription and over-the-counter—must be listed by camper families on the Health Form prior to the start of camp. Upon arrival, all medications will be checked in, logged, and securely stored in the Health Center by our health team. Medications are administered by Registered Nurses according to physician and pharmacy instructions. Arrangements can be made for medications to be sent in advance for campers traveling by bus. The Health Center is stocked with many common over-the-counter medications, which may reduce the need for families to provide these items. 

  • If a camper becomes ill or injured, they are promptly cared for by our trained medical staff in the Health Center. Parents are notified as appropriate, and we work closely with families to ensure each camper receives the necessary care and support. When a physician’s evaluation is needed, we utilize telehealth services or one of our nearby medical clinics.

  • We take food allergies and special diets very seriously. All meals are prepared with care to accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary needs, and our entire camp is nut-free. We are able to accommodate most allergies and can either direct campers to a special diets buffet bar or plate their meals separately, depending on the severity of the allergy.  Families can help prepare their campers for the camp experience by talking with them about being open to trying new foods. If you have any questions or concerns about accommodating your camper’s dietary needs, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

  • At Camp Med-o-Lark, supporting campers’ emotional well-being is a top priority. Our counselors are trained to listen with care, provide guidance, and offer encouragement, helping each child navigate challenges and grow in confidence. We foster a nurturing environment where campers feel safe, valued, and comfortable expressing themselves, building resilience, meaningful friendships, and a strong sense of belonging. Our philosophy centers around building up a child’s independence and confidence. In practice, this means that we do not step in to adjudicate what we consider developmentally normal discomfort such as healthy disputes between friends or moments of homesickness. If we see repeated emotional distress, any signs of bullying or exclusion, we step in and work with families on an action plan.

Emergency preparedness

  • While we hope emergencies never arise during the camp experience, we are fully prepared to respond if they do. We maintain comprehensive emergency plans to ensure the safety and well-being of our campers and staff. Our team is trained to act quickly and calmly, with clear protocols in place for supervision, communication, and care. We regularly review and practice these procedures.

  • During staff orientation, all counselors receive training aligned with ACA guidelines and established emergency procedures. Orientation includes practice exercises and scenarios so staff are prepared to respond quickly and confidently. Staff are trained to move campers safely in an emergency and to respond to situations such as missing campers, intruders, urgent weather conditions, and fires, ensuring camper safety and providing reassurance to families.

  • Our immediate focus in any emergency is the safety of our campers and staff. When it is safe and appropriate to do so, we will communicate with families as soon as possible via email, Campanion, or text message.

  • We maintain written emergency plans and procedures, in alignment with ACA guidelines, to respond to severe weather, fire, and evacuation situations. Staff are trained to respond promptly and calmly, moving campers to designated safe areas and maintaining appropriate supervision at all times. Campers are grouped by cabin during these situations so staff can quickly verify that everyone is accounted for. On the first day of camp, campers are given simple, age-appropriate instructions to help them understand what to do in an emergency. Procedures are regularly reviewed and practiced to ensure preparedness, with families informed as soon as it is safe and appropriate to do so.

Facilities & Physical Safety

  • We are committed to providing a safe, clean, and well-maintained camp environment, following guidelines set by the State of Maine and the American Camp Association. Cabins, facilities, and grounds are regularly inspected, cleaned, and maintained to ensure safe conditions for daily camp life. Campers are encouraged to help care for their community by tidying cabins and shared spaces and reporting any concerns to staff so they can be addressed promptly by our maintenance team. Together, we work to create a comfortable, secure, and welcoming environment where campers can thrive.

  • Adventure is an important part of the camp experience, and safety is always our top priority. All activities are thoughtfully planned and supervised, with risk management practices in place to support safe participation. Safety rules are clearly posted in art studios and activity areas, and campers receive a safety orientation on the first day of each class. For activities that involve higher-risk elements—such as fire, power tools, waterfront activities, circus arts, or specialized equipment like kilns—safety procedures are explained to campers and posted in the activity area. Through clear expectations, proper supervision, and ongoing instruction, campers are able to explore, create, and challenge themselves in a safe and supportive environment.

  • Water safety is a top priority, and all swimming and boating activities follow ACA standards. Trained lifeguards supervise all waterfront activities with appropriate staff-to-camper ratios. Our lifeguarding team receives additional training specific to waterfront environments, including emergency procedures and boat safety, which differ from pool settings. Campers complete a swim test to assess ability and determine eligibility for advanced activities, use a buddy system, and wear personal flotation devices for boating as required. Weather conditions are closely monitored, and activities are adjusted as needed to ensure a safe and enjoyable waterfront experience. Upon a camper’s arrival at camp, they will be asked to do a swim check. The swim check involves swimming about 50 feet and treading water for a minute. Campers who struggle through this check are required to wear a life jacket while in the lake. All campers who swim in the lake check in with a lifeguard before entering, so lifeguards can verify if a camper requires a life jacket.

  • Camper safety remains our priority during all transportation and off-site trips. Trips are carefully planned and supervised by trained staff, with appropriate staff-to-camper ratios maintained at all times. All off-site trips are to vendors that have been vetted for safe facilities, qualified staff, and appropriate risk management procedures. Vehicles and transportation providers meet required safety standards, and staff review expectations and emergency procedures with campers before departure. A member of the Health Center team accompanies off-site trips to manage medical needs and respond to emergencies, carrying necessary medications, including epi-pens and inhalers. Families will be notified by email, companion or text when the group departs camp and when they safely return.

Child protection & behavior

  • We are committed to providing a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all campers. Our child protection and abuse prevention policies follow American Camp Association standards and the requirements of the State of Maine, and include mandatory background checks for all staff, along with thorough additional screenings, training, and supervision. These policies address abuse of any kind, including peer-to-peer behavior. Staff are trained to maintain appropriate boundaries, recognize signs of grooming, report concerns, and follow mandated reporting laws. Clear procedures are in place to respond promptly and appropriately to any concerns, ensuring the safety and well-being of every camper.

  • Med-o-Lark is a place where campers are encouraged to be themselves while showing kindness and respect toward others. Clear community guidelines are shared at the start of every session to set expectations for behavior and respect. We take bullying seriously and address concerns promptly, with staff maintaining active supervision in a preventative role to support positive interactions. Through guidance and consistent expectations, we work with campers to build empathy, respect, and a community where everyone feels safe, supported, and valued.

    • Be inclusive – Everyone deserves to feel welcome and valued.

    • Unplug & be present – No cell phones or personal electronics.

    • Follow camp guidelines – Safety rules exist to ensure a great experience for all.

    • No tolerance for bullying, alcohol, marijuana, illegal drugs, theft, or inappropriate behavior – Campers violating these rules may be sent home without a refund.

  • Conflict is a natural part of growing up and living in community, and we approach it as an opportunity for learning, independence, and growth. Guided by our core values of friendship and kindness, consideration for self and others, and the confidence to think for yourself, staff are trained to notice when campers are navigating normal, healthy discomfort and to allow space for them to work things out on their own. When support is needed, staff address conflicts promptly and fairly, helping campers communicate with kindness, understand different perspectives, take responsibility, and follow through on commitments. When discipline is necessary, it is handled thoughtfully and age-appropriately, with a focus on safety, accountability, and growth rather than punishment. Families are included in the process as appropriate to support each camper’s success and well-being.

  • All campers are expected to contribute to a safe, respectful, and inclusive community. Campers are asked to treat others with kindness, follow camp rules and safety guidelines, respect staff instructions, and care for camp facilities and belongings. The Camper Code of Conduct is reviewed with campers on the first day of camp to ensure everyone understands expectations. This code is designed to support a positive camp experience for all and to help campers take responsibility for their actions while building independence, empathy, and respect for others.

Staff & training

  • Our counselors play a vital role in creating a safe, supportive, and enriching camp experience. We use a careful hiring process that follows Maine’s regulations for camp staffing and includes applications, interviews, checking three references for every staff member, and required background checks to ensure counselors are well suited to work with children. Counselors participate in comprehensive training before camp begins, covering supervision, safety procedures, child development, communication, and community expectations. Throughout the summer, counselors receive ongoing support, supervision, and feedback from experienced leadership to help them succeed in their roles and best support our campers.

  • Safety training continues throughout the camp season. Staff participate in frequent staff meetings and ongoing check-ins where safety procedures, emergency protocols, and supervision expectations are reviewed and reinforced in alignment with American Camp Association standards. Camp leadership provides continued guidance and support to ensure safety practices remain consistent and effective, helping maintain a secure environment for campers all summer long.

Communication with parents

  • Campers may call home after the first three full days of camp during designated times. International campers can call during the second half of lunch (1:30-2:00pm) and campers from the US can call during Chill Time (5:30–6:30 pm). We also make special phone call appointments for international families, which can be arranged by contacting our camp office.We also encourage letter writing, and sending a letter a few days before your camper arrives is a wonderful way to give them something special to read at the start of camp. Mail and packages are delivered daily.

    Through the Campanion app, families may send emails, which are printed and delivered to campers. Families receive regular updates and photos, allowing you to stay connected while your camper enjoys a screen-free, fully immersive camp experience.

  • We know staying informed helps families feel connected while their campers are at camp. Throughout the session, we share regular updates, photos, and important announcements through the Campanion app and email. These communications highlight daily life at camp, special events, and any timely information families need to know.

  • If you need to reach us, please call the camp office at 207-220-3530 between 8:30 am and 8:00 pm. If you need assistance outside of these hours, please email us at welcome@medolark.com, and we will respond as soon as possible.

  • When an incident occurs involving a camper, it is documented and addressed promptly. Families are contacted as appropriate by a Director or member of our leadership team to share details, explain any care provided, and discuss next steps. Our goal is to communicate clearly and thoughtfully, working in partnership with families to support each camper’s well-being.

security & privacy

  • Families are welcome to visit camp on Family Visiting Day, which takes place the day before the end of each session. In 2026, our Family Visiting Days are: 

    • Friday July 10 

    • Friday July 24

    • Friday Aug 7

    • Friday Aug 21 

    This is a day to spend the day at camp —meeting staff, taking a tour, and celebrating our camper's incredible work in theater, music, cricus and dance performances and our visual art show. Families may also drop off campers on drop off day, but we ask that you keep drop off visits brief. All visitors must sign in and out at the camp office and wear a visitor badge while on camp property. For the safety of our community, we ask that you do not visit camp outside of drop-off or visiting day, unless you've made special arrangements with us.

  • To ensure camper safety, we follow clear check-in and check-out procedures in accordance with American Camp Association (ACA) standards. Campers may only be released to individuals listed as authorized on their registration forms, and photo identification is required at pick-up. All arrivals and departures are documented, and staff supervise transitions to maintain appropriate oversight. These procedures help ensure that campers are always accounted for and released safely to approved adults.

  • We respect and protect camper privacy at all times. Photos and videos are taken only in appropriate settings and are shared with families through the secure Campanion app in accordance with our privacy policies. Campers are never photographed in private spaces, and images are used thoughtfully to celebrate camp life while maintaining each camper’s dignity and safety.

    Families have the option to opt out of photo sharing, and we encourage parents to contact us at welcome@medolark.com with any questions or concerns regarding camper privacy or photo use.

  • To support a screen-free, fully immersive camp experience, we encourage families to leave most electronics at home. Campers are not permitted to use devices that connect to Wi-Fi while at camp. MP3 players for listening to music and Kindles for reading are allowed.

  • If you know of a family or friend who would like to tour Camp Med-o-lark, we would be happy to set one up. Just reach out to us at welcome@medolark.com or call us at 207.220.3530.

Trust & Reassurance

  • Your child’s safety is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and well-supervised environment where campers can learn, grow, and thrive. Through thoughtful policies, trained and caring staff, clear communication, and alignment with American Camp Association (ACA) standards and State of Maine guidelines, we work proactively to protect the physical, emotional, and social well-being of every camper. We value our partnership with families and remain dedicated to transparency, preparedness, and care throughout the camp experience.

  • We are committed to operating at the highest standards of safety, care, and professionalism. Our policies and practices align with the guidelines and standards set by the American Camp Association (ACA) and the State of Maine, and we regularly review our procedures to reflect current best practices in camp operations. Through ongoing training, careful planning, and continuous evaluation, we strive to create a safe, supportive, and high-quality camp experience for every camper and family.

    While we limit camper-to-family communication during the first three days of camp to support adjustment and independence, we encourage families to check in with us if they have any concerns or would like an update. We welcome families to reach out at any time and work closely with them to support each camper’s successful transition. Through consistent care, structure, and positive community support, most campers quickly gain confidence and feel at home at camp.

  • Families consistently share that they feel confident and reassured by the care, supervision, and communication provided throughout the camp experience. Many note the professionalism of our staff, the clarity of our safety procedures, and the thoughtful way concerns are addressed. Hearing that families trust us with their children is something we value deeply, and it reinforces our commitment to maintaining a safe, supportive, and well-managed camp community.